There’s a lot of blame to go around the South African Springbok side that ‘played’ against the Argentinan Pumas, but certain players are more notable than others. Francois Louw takes the ‘prize’ because he single-handedly missed two try-saving tackles.
On one of them, he simply was not where he should have been. Louw could always be seen on the fringes of the rucks and put zero pressure on Nicolás Sanchez, the Argentine flyhalf whose performance Saturday played a significant role in the Puma’s victory.
Evidently, Rassie Erasmus deemed Louw worthy of another 80 minutes – this after a similar performance in the match last week.
Rather it was Eben Etzebeth who got the early axe for his ill-discipline and lack-lustre effort while he was on the pitch.
Frans Malherbe should never have been given the starting role at tighthead. It took a game and a half for Erasmus to figure that out and we all saw the difference when Wilco Louw came on.
Warren Whiteley was, yet again, a shell of his old self. One could have given him a pass for rusty play in the first Test last week in Durban, but he’s evidently lost his way for now.
(MARCO LONGARI/AFP/Getty Images)
There’s also a serious festering at the centres. Neither Lukhanyo Am or André Esterhuizen were able to get much penetration which was shocking once again.
Aphiwe Dyantyi showed his lack of rugby intelligence with some poor choices when kicking. He also botched some simple rules-play when not releasing the ball when tackled.
Willie le Roux failed to commit to the high ball more than not, and his ability to counter-attack has left him. Damian Willemse will be his replacement when le Roux heads back to his club in Europe in a few weeks which will be a good move.
Overall, blame must lie with Erasmus and his assistants for not adequately preparing his side or selecting his best 15 for an Argentinian squad that has improved all aspects since their Durban performance.
The ‘Boks ran out flat and never rose to the occasion.
Stanthefootballfan
Roar Rookie
They may well do that, but I am very disappointed because any real chance they had to launch a challenge to win the RC title from the All Blacks quickly got stuck in the mud last weekend ... against the Pumas!
Stanthefootballfan
Roar Rookie
Nothing good came out of the game against Los Pumas, as per usual, for the Boks. I always get the feeling they keep their worst RC performances for when they play in Argentina (win or lose). The Boks always seem to have trouble motivating themselves for that fixture. The Pumas on the other hand seem determined to challenge their status as the perennial wooden spooners of the RC. Well played Pumas.
Nobrain
Roar Guru
For me W L is a great player but he missed to tackle Delguy in the first two tries of LP. Also Creevy did not le t Etzebeth tackle Boffelli when the played started in the first try. Everybody does the same anyway:
P2R2
Roar Rookie
R.G. I disagree with your assertion that the SBs will bounce back against the WBs ... I think the WBs will take it easily...
P2R2
Roar Rookie
I disagree with your assertion that the SBs will bounce back the WBs next week...based on what? I think the SBs are in dire trouble, should the WBs play 80mins like they do for 40mins against the ABs, the SBs are in deep deep trouble...I give the test to the WBs easily...
Just Nuisance
Roar Rookie
A week or so ago I commented on a column by Harry Jones that this Argentinian team are going to claim a few scalps in this RC comp. I saw enough in Durban to come to this conclusion. They are benefiting big time from playing as almost an identical team in Superugby. To this they have brought consistency in coaching staff as well. With players like Creevy and the likes of Lavinini for grunt and a very strong scrum , then some impressive wings with pace and power , I do not expect this to be their only win. Yes the boks were poor but absolutely nothing should be taken away from Argentina.
Shop
Roar Guru
Very scathing about the Boks but credit should be given to the Pumas. They were outstanding in most aspects and played very smart in the second half to not allow SA to get back into the game. I think they’ll bounce back against the Wallabies next week.
Ralph
Roar Guru
In Rassie we trust.
Green Lantern
Roar Pro
I believe this is the darkest era being a Springbok supporter.
Blue
Guest
Louw has been off the pace since last year. IT is a worry that the coach cannot see that. SA is a deserved number 7 on the world rankings.
Oblonsky‘s Other Pun
Roar Guru
A poor match, but we've seen some goods ones under Rassie this year also. I think the Boks will bounce back well.